The Center for Child and Family Policy (CCFP) held its latest research retreat at Duke University’s Penn Pavillion on August 26, building on the success of its first-ever retreat in 2023.
Themed "Planning and Executing Research in Changing Times," the event brought together affiliated faculty, research scientists, and research staff for a half day to engage in peer-to-peer discussions of research and cross-disciplinary ideas and explore opportunities for funding collaborations.
The program kicked off with a welcome from Center Director Jennifer Lansford and flash talks from CCFP core faculty, including Christina Gibson-Davis, Lisa Gennetian, Leslie Babinski, Beth Gifford, Sarah Komisarow, Garry Mitchell, Agustina Laurito and Katie Rosanbalm.
The mid-morning session focused on navigating the impact of federal spending cuts, with presentations from Liz Snyder-Fickler, Nicole Lawrence, and Jenni Owen on state grants and contracts. Alexandra De Havilland and Lightsey Darst shared insights about working with foundations.
Attendees were also encouraged to participate in table discussions to brainstorm ways for CCFP to support their research efforts. Feedback was gathered from each table and later shared with participants.
In the final moments, participants gathered for lunch and table discussions grouped by research interests. Attendees discussed potential funders and collaborations and exchanged ideas for future proposals.
Notes and action items were recorded throughout the retreat and shared out to participants following the event.
The retreat reaffirmed the importance of open dialogue, shared learning and actionable steps in driving progress toward improving the lives of children and families.
